Liz Cheney Joins Kamala Harris in Bid to Rally Moderate Republicans Against Trump

RIPON, Wisconsin (AP) — On Thursday, Liz Cheney, a prominent critic of former President Donald Trump, appeared alongside Vice President Kamala Harris at a pivotal event in Ripon, a location known as the birthplace of the modern Republican Party. This move represents the Democratic vice president’s strategy to appeal to moderate voters and challenge Trump’s influence among the Republican base.

Liz Cheney, the daughter of former Vice President Dick Cheney, previously served as a Republican representative and was a significant figure on the House committee investigating the January 6 Capitol riot. Her outspoken criticism of Trump has alienated her from much of the Republican Party. “Violence does not and must never determine who rules us. Voters do,” Cheney told an audience, referring to Trump’s inaction during the Capitol attack, to which some attendees responded by calling Trump a “coward.”

The appearance took place at Ripon’s Little White Schoolhouse, a historic site where the Republican Party was founded in 1854. Cheney’s presence alongside Harris signals an unconventional alliance between a conservative figure and a leading Democratic candidate. During her remarks, Cheney expressed her support for Harris, stating, “I know that she loves our country, and I know she will be a president for all Americans.”

The visit to Wisconsin is part of a broader strategic campaign, as both Harris and Trump focus on winning pivotal battleground states, known as the “blue wall,” which include Wisconsin, Michigan, and Pennsylvania. This trip marks the beginning of Harris’s two-day campaign tour across Wisconsin and Michigan.

President Joe Biden, speaking from the White House, downplayed concerns about the tight race between Harris and Trump, expressing confidence in Harris’s campaign performance and her vice-presidential running mate, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz.

Meanwhile, Trump, addressing his supporters in Saginaw County, Michigan, made no mention of the latest legal developments against him or Cheney’s support for Harris. The area is a key battleground, having narrowly voted for Biden in the 2020 election.

Cheney’s endorsement is part of a broader effort by some Republicans who oppose Trump’s political direction to support Harris. As part of this initiative, Harris has launched “Republicans for Harris” events across key states, including participation from other former Republican officials who have distanced themselves from Trump.

While Cheney’s support underscores a unique political coalition, it also creates a complex dynamic for some Harris supporters who have previously opposed her family’s conservative legacy. However, Cheney’s vocal opposition to Trump is gaining her respect among certain younger and moderate voters.

Harris will continue her campaign tour with a rally in Flint, Michigan, as both candidates vie for influence in the crucial battleground states influencing the upcoming election.